Preparation of Cell-Paved and -Incorporated Polysaccharide Hollow Fibers Using a Microfluidic Device.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Artificial blood vessels are crucial for vascular tissue engineering.
• Polyion complexes (PICs) from polysaccharides can form hollow fibers.
• Cell adhesion and proliferation are key for functional vascular constructs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop cell-laden chondroitin sulfate C (CS)/chitosan (CHI) hollow fibers using a microfluidic device.
• To enhance cell adhesion and proliferation on these hollow fibers using cell-adhesive molecules.
• To evaluate the viability and proliferation of encapsulated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for potential vascular applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of CS/CHI hollow fibers via microfluidics.
• Surface modification using layer-by-layer assembly with collagen, fibronectin, and gelatin.
• Encapsulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) within the fiber walls.
• Cell culture, live/dead assay, and MTT assay to assess cell viability and proliferation.

Main Results:

• CS/CHI hollow fibers were successfully fabricated with encapsulated MSCs.
• Surface modification with collagen and other molecules significantly improved fibroblast adhesion and spreading.
• MSCs within the collagen-loaded fibers migrated, adhered to lumen surfaces, and proliferated for up to 10 days.
• Unmodified fibers showed poor cell adhesion and aggregate formation within the lumen.

Conclusions:

• CS/CHI hollow fibers modified with cell-adhesive molecules support MSC viability and proliferation.
• Collagen-loaded fibers promote better cell adhesion and organization, mimicking vascular tissue.
• These cell-laden hollow fibers show significant potential for developing artificial blood vessels.